Hometown St. Thomas July-August 2025 Issue 71
Letter from the Editor Supporting Local is More Than a Catchphrase While the Elbows Up fervour seems to have calmed down as we settle into our new trade reality with our largest trading partner, I think it’s vital that we not forget and continue our best practices of buying Canadian and,
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even more importantly, supporting local businesses. The benefits of shopping local aren’t just about warm fuzzies and friendlier customer service. The numbers back it up: according to a 2020 study by LOCO BC, for every $100 spent with a local business, $63 stays in the community, compared to only $14 when the same $100 is spent with a multinational corporation*. And if that doesn’t impress you, here’s another one: small businesses account for 68% of all private sector jobs in Canada (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, 2022)**. In other words, local really does mean jobs and prosperity at home. Myself, I’m often asked where my magazines are printed, and I’m always proud to say: right here in St. Thomas at Impressions Printing. As you can imagine, printing is my most significant monthly expense, and I am thrilled to keep that money circulating in our own backyard. In just that one relationship, I see how many people in our community are employed by Impressions; the charitable contributions they make, and the ripple effect that spreads throughout St. Thomas. Supporting local shouldn’t be just a rallying cry when a trading partner decides to take their ball and go home; it should be our everyday mantra. It’s how we stay true north, strong, and free. So, I’d like to challenge each of you, dear readers: for the next few weeks, once a week, instead of heading to make a purchase at a foreign-owned national conglomerate, try checking out a local store. You might just find what you’re looking for, and more. If you buy from a local store, you might meet the store owner. If you meet the store owner, they might tell you about their weekend barbecue fundraiser. If you go to the barbecue fundraiser, you might win a raffle basket filled with more local goods. And if you enjoy those local goods, you might just become a local regular. And if you become a local regular, well, shopping local won’t be something you have to remember to do. It’ll just be second nature. And then everyone wins. Oh, and tell them Hometown St. Thomas sent you! *LOCO BC (2020), The Economic Impact of Local Businesses **Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (2022), Key Small Business Statistics
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Elgin County Pride! by Peri Hayes Devon Church and Neil Hubert beam with joy while discussing Elgin County Pride. Devon, involved for over five years, and Neil having joined in 2023, detail the ways in which the St. Thomas- Elgin Rainbow Alliance brought Elgin County Pride to fruition alongside the formerly active and notably contributive Martin Withenshaw. Presently with four members in leadership, Neil describes, “We have a solid team, and we all want to own it. We are equals.” Neil’s participation was inspired by the non-profit organization’s Queer Prom. Their third execution of this event was recently celebrated and an evident success, with 65 students in attendance. Devon expresses, “These kids are going to remember this for the rest of their lives; some of them met their best friend that night.” Moreover, Mrs. Chastity Cage brought vibrancy into the venue with a captivating performance of “Pink Pony Club”. For their several years facilitating this event in partnership with YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin, the team has collaborated with core volunteers and powerful allies. “This is a safe space in a secure location,” Neil highlights. “I want to create an event for these kids that we can hand to them. For ages 14 to 19, everyone is welcome.” “Representation is huge,” Devon voices. “We both grew up here and didn’t have these resources. I really get excited about creating this space for our youth.” To this, Neil adds, “It’s about celebrating diversity and fostering connection; when people come together and be who they want to be. We are celebrating chosen family.” The Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario’s Rainbow Connections significantly contributes to the Queer Prom, as emphasized by Devon and Neil, along with Harvest Hands supplying their abundant door prizes. As well, Wellkin Child and Youth Mental Wellness beautifully curated their dedicated zone for zen in the yoga room. While reflecting on the incredible support, Neil shares with tears in his eyes, “There was a lot of positive energy in the space. The parking lot was filled with parents picking up their children.” The team is currently seeking a Social Media Manager, which will be a beneficial position for a student collecting high school volunteer hours. Furthermore, upcoming this July 26th is Pride in the Park. Queer community members and allies are welcome to email elgincountypride@gmail.com for oppor- tunities at this event involving food truck endeavours, per-
forming, volunteering, or participating as a vendor at Char- lie’s Market. Queer Club is held at the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin every Tuesday, alternating between ages 12 to 18 and the adult group.. For information, visit the Elgin County Pride Facebook page and the elgincountypride.com website.
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From There to Here: Alberto and Mira When Alberto Anabalon and Mira Grkavoic made the decision to leave Toronto behind, it wasn’t just about moving cities; it was about redefining their lifestyle: the pandemic changed everything. “We used to live in Midtown Toronto,” Mira recalls. “And then COVID hit, and Alberto wanted a house, but we couldn’t afford a $1.6 million home in Toronto.” A Toronto Life magazine article introduced her to the idea of St. Thomas. “I’d never heard of it before, but we thought, let’s check this place out.” Their first visit was in February. “We walked around downtown, had lunch at a fast-food chain,” Mira says. “People were lovely. Even the police were kind when we asked about crime rates.” The couple kept returning every weekend, exploring neighbourhoods and viewing homes. Alberto, originally from Chile, moved to Canada in 2008 and describes this new move as a shared adventure. “When I left Chile, it was my first time away from my parents. Mira had lived in Japan for three years. So for us, coming to a city we’d never heard of before was exciting. It felt like we were doing this big thing together.” As a real estate agent, Alberto used his access to MLS listings to their advantage. While affordability drove their search, St. Thomas stood out. “We liked that for our budget, we were looking at nicer neighbourhoods than in other places we considered,” he says. “We wanted a home that needed a bit of work, like painting, drywall -- stuff we could do ourselves.” The couple now lives in a mature neighbourhood with plenty of trees and character homes. They’ve embraced renovation projects and continue improving their home. Their two COVID- era adopted kittens also enjoy the space, which was another deciding factor in their move. But it wasn’t just real estate that won them over -- it was the people. “I found the people here a lot friendlier, kinder, more receptive,” says Mira. “In Toronto, people are busy and keep walking. Here, when something happened to my car, three neighbours came over to help.”
Since settling in, they’ve fully immersed themselves in the community. Mira joined the board of the St. Thomas Public Library and the Elgin County Business Resource Centre. “I don’t think I would’ve done that in Toronto. Now, I feel like I belong. I want to be involved and to advocate for St. Thomas.” Alberto agrees although it took him a little longer to adjust. “I had a harder time falling in love with the city at first. But now I really appreciate the rhythm and pace of life here. It’s slower but in a good way. I feel more productive and focused.” They’ve found their go-to spots, too: Legends, Taco House, and Plaza Sushi. “We love showing off the city when our Toronto friends visit,” Mira adds. “We take them biking through downtown and Pinafore Park. The architecture here is beautiful.” For Alberto and Mira, St. Thomas isn’t just a new place to live; it’s home.
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Style Revival, Curated with Care by Peri Hayes
Established in January, Kristen Bryans of Style Revival candidly shares, “I lost my job and was considering that I’ve always wanted to own a boutique.” She connected with Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) about which she declares her positive experience: “I believe that if it’s meant to be, there’s going to be somewhere to step while walking the path.” Sourcing and buying her products, Kristen also graciously accepts contributions: “Someone wrote to me that they wanted to support local business, with over 5,000 hangers and more to donate. I realized thereafter that this was my former boss’ wife who had reached out and was supporting my next venture without knowing that it was me. I knew at this moment that I was on the right path for this exciting chapter.”
Kristen enthuses, “I love having a place where people can be together. Plus, we have good deals here!” The business owner had accumulated 4,000 followers on social media before opening, and she feels incredibly appreciative to be a recipient of this support: “This community is off the charts. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the kindness of people.” She rejoices in her recent win of a small business grant through SBEC. Moreover, Kristen reveals that there is potential for expanding to men’s wear. As a means to spread generosity, Style Revival is partnered with the City of St. Thomas and Fanshawe College -- providing shopping vouchers for women who are struggling. Kristen is also working with Champions for Change, to which she donates pieces on a monthly basis. Collaborating with her boyfriend, this multifaceted entrepreneur displays Calm Canadian- made items entailing natural perfume, peppermint sticks for headaches and more in-store. Through the all-natural One Yappy Dog Biscuit Co., the pair also prepare products with a percentage of the proceeds directed to Caressent Care’s Activity Department, as well as donating clothing to residents. Visit Style Revival on social media platforms, or email style_ revival@icloud.com with inquiries. Consistent with the mall hours of operation, this business is located at the Elgin Centre. Kristen lovingly concludes, “I have been here for 25-plus years. My kids went to school here. I deeply care about this community.”
“Family comes first,” Kristen highlights while speaking proudly of her children: “My daughter, Morgan and I run the store. We are super close, and I’m grateful that this has brought us together. It’s special. This store is special. Women come here and they are so ready to let themselves simply be, sharing stories and embracing emotions in this connective space -- this is much more than what I thought this could be.”
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Meet Me at the Market Summer is in full bloom, and the Horton Farmers’ Market is bustling with fresh finds, friendly faces, and the unmistakable buzz of community. Whether you’re stopping in for a juicy pint of berries, a handmade gift, or a week’s worth of veggies, the market is your go-to spot for local goodness. With each visit, you’ll discover new vendors, returning favourites, and the kind of charm that makes Saturday mornings in St. Thomas something special. Come for the produce, stay for the people. Taco House Co. Bringing the vibrant taste of Monterrey, Mexico to St. Thomas, Taco House Co. is a must-visit at the Horton Farmers’ Market. Founded by Aurora Alcocer, who was born and raised in
Monterrey, the taqueria offers a menu rooted in authentic Northern Mexican flavours. “I was inspired by my parents’ experience in Mexico and wanted to share the food from my childhood with this community,” says Aurora. At the market, Aurora serves up freshly made tacos — barbacoa, steak, and chicken fajita, on house-made, gluten- free corn tortillas. Toppings like Pico de Gallo, homemade salsa, and lime add extra zing. You can also grab a pack of tortillas (12 or 30) and try her popular tamales, available in beef, chicken, cheese, and poblano pepper. Barbacoa tacos and lime Jarritos are customer favourites, but at her restaurant, many line up on ‘Flautas Fridays’ for her crispy rolled tacos. “Our food is fast, fresh and filled with love,” Aurora says. Beyond the flavours, she brings joy. “We love playing games and making people smile because food should be fun.” Drop by on Saturday mornings — you’ll leave full and happy. Port Stanley Woodworks Known affectionately as The Bowl Maker, Douglas Bruce has turned a lifetime of woodworking into a thriving artistic pursuit. After retiring from a 35-year career as a locomotive engineer with VIA Rail, Douglas picked up his father’s old lathe and never looked back. “Once I had the time and space, it was the perfect chance to turn my lifelong hobby into something more creative,” he says. Since moving to Port Stanley in 2020, Douglas has been crafting stunning wooden salad bowls, pepper mills, and pens using both local hardwoods and exotic woods like cocobolo, padauk, and ebony. “Each piece is a work of art,” he explains. “I don’t stop until I’ve made it the best I can.”
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At the Horton Farmers’ Market, Douglas showcases his passion. He takes commissions, like a trio of pepper mills inspired by the White Tower of Thessaloniki, and even sharpens knives and scissors on select Saturdays. “This market is special,” he says. “Shoppers want to meet the maker, and I love being part of that.” When Port Stanley Woodworks is at the market, you’ll find quality, craftsmanship, and great conversation. TKS Woodworks What started with a backyard BBQ and a single veggie planter has grown into a full-time passion for Tina and Keith Small, the husband-and-wife duo behind TKS Woodworks. “Keith built me a small cedar planter during COVID, and when our friends saw it, they said we should sell them,” Tina recalls. “That first planter is still going strong at a friend’s house!”
After four years of part-time sales on Marketplace, Tina and Keith made the leap to full-time woodworking when they moved to St. Thomas last year. Their specialty? Custom-raised cedar planters crafted from high-quality red western cedar sourced from B.C., a wood naturally resistant to rot and mildew. “Other woods like pine or pallet wood just don’t last, and some can be unsafe for growing food,” Tina explains. From 6x2 raised beds to herb boxes and hanging basket planters, each piece is handcrafted at their home. “People are always surprised we don’t have a storefront,” laughs Tina. “Keith builds them, and I make them look pretty.” Now regulars at the Horton Farmers’ Market, the Smalls love connecting with their new community, one planter at a time.
Christmas is a fair way away; however, our work is never done. Our elves work year-round. Here are ways you can donate today: Via cheque mailed to: Elgin-St. Thomas Christmas Care P.O. Box 20016 St. Thomas, ON N5P 4H4 Or on our website at https://christmascarestthomas.com Or scan this QR Code:
Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025 • Page 7 www.christmascarestthomas.com Christmas is a fair way away; however, our work is never done. Our elves work year-round. Here are ways you can donate today: Via cheque mailed to: On our website: Elgin-St. Thomas Christmas Care https:// christmascarestthomas.com/
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Barry Fellinger’s Latest Book Release by Peri Hayes During his childhood, Barry Fellinger was drawn to a lifelong passion for literature: “Telling stories seemed to come naturally to me due to my love of reading. Lewis and Tolkien, among others, were certainly inspirational for me. I always found the stories had something that could be learned -- nuggets of truth that could be applied in real life.” Released on April 24th, The Fifth Guardian: A Symphony of Discord is accessible in eBook and paperback format -- through Amazon, Indigo and other online distributors. Locally, physical copies are presently available at Lockwood Books. “I classify this work as science-fiction, because of the overriding multiverse. Unlike my other two books for middle- grade readers, this is my first foray into writing and publishing an adult sci-fi story.” Surrounding the theme of unexpected tragedy, Barry earnestly reveals what motivates this narrative: “On June 6th, 1986, we lost our second child; a daughter who was born prematurely with her lungs and other parts not developed enough to survive. She lived for about forty minutes. Holding her as she struggled to breathe and dedicating her back to God as she was dying remains the hardest thing I have ever done. It was a devastating experience for my wife, Beth, and myself.” “We named our little girl Lindsay, and that is who the book is dedicated to. Our discordant experience, which made us question if the universe was unfolding as we thought it should, became the foundational inspiration for The Fifth Guardian: A Symphony of Discord. Maybe, just maybe, perhaps there is a version of Lindsay somewhere out there in the multiverse that survived.”
Furthermore, this diverse and sus- penseful novel explores the concept of, as Barry voices, “something lurking, something laughing, something evil and yet, perhaps there is hope after all -- the hope that springs eternal. I do hope that readers are not only surprised, even confused by it, but maybe see bits of themselves in the variety of characters. If you are starting to find the darkness in Part 1 overwhelming, keep going -- Part 2 will bring the light!”
“I would be remiss if I did not give credit to my very patient editor, coach and cover artist, Paula Tezilyn, who provided such great assistance. She offered valuable feedback as the story developed, walked me through the self-publishing aspects, provided a number of great marketing images and commentary for social media, and designed a fantastic front cover.” Online reviews are appreciated by Barry, as well as emailing feedback and inquiries to barrymfellingerauthor@gmail.com. “If potential readers want to test out the first chapter for free before they buy the book, they can do that at subscribepage. io/thefifthguardian.” Last month, Barry and Beth hosted a kick-off Signing Cele- bration in their neighbourhood -- with homemade cinnamon buns, and a portion of the sales that day having been donated to Destination Church’s School Lunch Program. Barry looks forward to his Book Signing Celebration at Coles in Masonville Place from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm this July 12th, about which he nods to exciting draws for swag.
Page 8 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025
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Recognizing 100 Years of St. Joseph’s Catholic High School by Peri Hayes Dave Fox, Friends of St. Joseph’s Charity Chair, alongside Sarah Collier, Friends of St. Joseph’s Vice-Chair, describe their excitement for the upcoming 100th anniversary of St. Joseph’s Catholic High School. Asked what drew each of them to this space, Sarah shares, “I was a graduate of St. Joseph’s in 2009. My high school experience was unforgettable, and I felt so fortunate to have teachers and coaches who went above and beyond. Starting in 2021, I have absolutely loved being part of such a strong community that works together to provide endless opportunities for all students.” Meanwhile, Dave thoughtfully reflects, “I graduated from St. Joseph’s in 1992, and have spent the last 22 years teaching and coaching at the school that has so many great memories for me. The community of St. Joseph’s is the biggest reason that students love being here. It is also the reason we have many alumni who want to come back to teach.” St. Joseph’s will celebrate their 100th anniversary this October 6th until the 11th, with the 6th until the 9th featuring in-school activities for students. Commencing at 6:30 pm on October 8th will be the Centennial Unplugged Concert, showcasing alumni and current music students -- for which tickets will be available in the fall. Their Thursday Night Football Game on October 9th will be from 6:00 pm until 10:00 pm at 1Password Park. Moreover, their Friday and Saturday Pub Night is scheduled at St. Anne’s Centre from 8:00 pm until 1:00 am, entailing live music with beverages and food for sale. As Saturday is sold out, tickets for the Friday evening are purchasable through the stjosephshighschool.biz webpage. Their Saturday school Open House from 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm will exhibit symbolic
RRSPs/RRIFs • TFSAs • Estate and Financial Planning Service RRSPs/RRIFs • TFSAs • Estate and Financial Planning Service There are lots of reasons to save money for the future – and lots of ways I can help. Make your money work harder. To know how much you need to save, start by determining what you’ll need to spend in retirement. It all starts with a conversation. Make your money work harder. To know how much you need to save, start by determining what you’ll need to spend in retirement. It all starts with a conversation. Investments. Protection. Freedom. There are lots of reasons to save money for the future – and lots of ways I can help. Investments. Protection. Freedom. There are lots of reasons to save money for the future – and lots of ways I can help. memorabilia and their Staff Photo, both past and present, has been arranged for 3:00 pm. Their 4:30 pm Saturday Mass at Holy Angels Church — with Bishop Fabbro — will include a special Dedication to Sisters of St Joseph’s who pioneered the school. Regarding the growth of this school community, Sarah highlights, “From the Hockey Academy to hosting outstanding drama productions, St. Joseph’s continues to look for new opportunities to engage students.” As Dave proceeds, “With regards to funding for improvement projects, graduation scholarships, athletics, the arts and more, the anniversary is an opportunity for alumni to pledge their support for the school to ensure that all of these key areas are taken care of for years to come.” Those interested in donating are encouraged to visit their social media and website for information about ‘100th sponsorships’, as well as becoming involved with their recently launched ‘Century Club’. For updates about the 100th anniversary, explore the afore- mentioned website and visit the St. Joseph’s Catholic High School Alumni Facebook and Instagram profiles.
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Page 10 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025
The Growth of Christmas Care by Peri Hayes
Involved since 2018, Richard Auckland has been the proud President of Elgin-St. Thomas Christmas Care since 2022. “The organization is run by our Board and Coordinators,” as he shares. “We divide the duties up between Food and Logistics, Toys and Administration -- with close to 100 volunteers involved in various aspects of the program.” Christmas Care is entering its 41st year in St. Thomas and area. “It all started with The Salvation Army wanting to provide a Christmas meal for families, and toys for children who were in need. Now, we serve residents of St. Thomas, Southwold and Central Elgin. We also assist organizations with extra food.” Approximately 1,500 hampers are prepared each year, with registration beginning early November. There has been a rise over time in those applying for assistance, as Richard reflects on the statistics: “Since 2020, we have seen an increase in those served by about 25%.” Richard proceeds to highlight, “In 2002, groceries cost about $33,000. In 2024, we spent almost $130,000 on groceries.” Meanwhile, in 2020, donations from corporations, grants, groups and individuals totalled over $130,000. Last year, almost $245,000 in donations were graciously accepted. “I am continually impressed with humanity,” Richard voices while expressing gratitude for the goodwill from local businesses and organizations. “In 2025, we will again be using the Memorial Arena Auditorium for our registration and administration. This area also acts as our warehouse for collecting food and assembling our hampers. The City provides this space to us, free of charge.
The last few years, we have been fortunate that Elgin Centre has served as our toy headquarters.” With Christmas Care elves working year-round, there are presently ways for those interested to contribute. Donations are welcome via cheque to P.O. Box 20016, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4H4, or through the christmascarestthomas.com website. To ensure efficiency of their distribution line, Richard offers, “If people do want to give us products, we ask that you consider giving a case of beans or soup instead of a can.” Further, Richard and his team are encouraging donations by the end of November for their assembling process: “The earlier the better. Of course, people don’t typically start thinking about Christmas until the weather turns cold or there is snow in the air! We’re trying to change people’s mindset. This year, volunteers will be at the Seniors’ Picnic and other area events.” As Richard concludes, “A huge thank you to the community, because we are indebted for the support we receive. I’d especially like to recognize Al Mintz and his wife, Marilyn, who have been involved with our program since its inception in 1980.”
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Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025 • Page 11
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YWCA’s Fourth Summer Night Social by Peri Hayes Melissa Kempf, Communications Office Manager at YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin, cheerfully presents: “The event for this year’s Summer Night Social has a Canadian-inspired theme, so we encourage guests to wear their red and white or Canadian tuxedo for their chance to win the Best Dressed EH-ward.” Facilitated in the cozy and enchanting setting of Wildflowers Farm, Melissa enthuses, “This is the perfect location for it.” As Melissa proceeds to detail, their Summer Social will entail the following: “We start off the night with live music on our main stage. Last year, we hosted The Sheridan Band and they are returning. After the first set, we invite guests to participate in a variety of nostalgic, outdoor games. We are adding a ‘Feed the Pigs’ Apple Toss -- a twist on a carnival game.” An array of these activities are included in the ticket price.
of their fundraiser, Melissa shares, “Back by popular demand, we close the night with the Live Auction. Additionally, Adam Blair and Dan Stewart will perform during an old-fashioned campfire with a sing-along.” “We will have Salt & Pepper Meals prepare the food for the evening.” Moreover, their grazing bar will feature all Canadian snacks. Speaking of food, Melissa highlights, “Mayor Joe Preston is going to auction off a dinner for six, which he will make as ‘Chef’ in someone’s home.” “We are proud to have MASCO returning as our Legacy Sponsor.” Melissa is pleased to reflect that the YWCA has raised $33,000 toward their programs and services, “Which can’t be matched,” she conveys. “This event is an amazing contribution to our fiscal year. For the community, this is a platform to see the business and how supportive they are in this
Meanwhile, Chicken Poop Bingo and the 50/50 Raffle are guest contributions which directly support the YWCA. Also as part
“Improving mental health is our priority”
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Page 12 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025
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price of nine. Looking forward to this continued celebration, Melissa assures that parking on the property will be free.
town.” Regarding sponsorship, email YWCA’s Fund Development Coordinator, Sarah Lounsbury, at slounsbury@ywcaste.ca. The YWCA encourages guests to bring colleagues and friends. As Melissa expresses, “I would say the best part of the event is seeing everyone come together, whether it’s individuals, friends, family, business owners and co-workers -- just that human connection being rooted in fun. For the YWCA, it means so much to have a fundraising event of this magnitude.” Further, the Selfie Booth Company will be on-site for capturing the wholesome moments throughout the evening. This Summer Night Social will be fun-filled, rain or shine, on Thursday, August 14th from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Tickets for this 19+ event are available through the ywcaste.ca/ website until August 11th, with their 10-pack offer discounted at the
Hometown St. Thomas July-August Cover
The return of CAR 14 along the historic London & Port Stanley Railway (L&PS) route. May 24th marked its first passenger run since 1957. Photo by Geoff Rae
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Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025 • Page 13
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Nostalgia Nights 2025 by Peri Hayes Grayden Laing, Chair of the St. Thomas Downtown De- velopment Board, anticipates another amusing return of the local Nostalgia Nights experience. Asked what motivates his continued involvement, Grayden offers, “Nostalgia Nights is one of the largest draws for visitors to St. Thomas. During the event, we have had as many as 10,000 people visit our downtown. As such, it is an important event to bring people downtown to discover how beautiful and welcoming our City is. My role is one of oversight, which involves checking in with the committee members and being there on the day of to help everything run smoothly. The majority of the heavy lifting and credit for the event has to go to the committee members, volunteers and our partners at the EDC – specifically, Sarah Lynch, who has taken the lead on this year's event.”
Nostalgia Nights is celebrated on Talbot Street and will entail a delightful showcase of the various, exquisite classic cars from the community. As there is no admission or registration fee, Grayden encourages the attendance of anyone enthusiastic about showcasing the beauty of one of their vehicles. Regarding the upcoming festivities, the following details are highlighted by Grayden: “This year along with the Classic Car Show, there will be live music -- and free train rides sponsored by Railway City Tourism, Briwood Farm Market, MyFM, Domino’s Pizza and Reith & Associates. There will also be a Vintage Vendor Market with car-related items by the Tourism Office, a 50/50 draw, and Chill & Cheer stations sponsored by Doug Tarry Homes and The St. Thomas and District Chamber of Commerce -- with music, entertainment and drinks provided by the Elgin County Railway Museum and From the Vines.”
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Page 14 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025
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Moreover, the main stage will host Neil Diamond and Patsy Cline tributes, along with the Bombshell Beauties Pageant returning. As Grayden proceeds to passionately express, “I’m looking forward to welcoming all the cars, their owners, and visitors to our Downtown St. Thomas Business Improvement Area. In addition to that, I also enjoy taking photos during Nostalgia Nights so I can share them with everyone after the cars roll out and the sun is setting on another major Downtown event.” Nostalgia Nights 2025 is beginning on July 12th at 4:00 pm, ongoing until 9:00 pm. Anyone interested in this highly anticipated event is invited to connect with the Downtown Development Board by phoning 519-633-5248, or emailing ddb@stthomas.ca with inquiries.
Tuesday-Saturday 11am–7pm Closed Sunday & Monday.
Classic Cars Love Classic Service Enjoy Nostalgia Night! 633-6384 21 Laing Blvd., St. Thomas Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Saturday 8am-noon
Stop in during Nostalgia Night for St. Thomas’ Best Fish & Chips 644 Talbot St., St. Thomas • 519-631-3202
175 Sunset Drive • (519) 631-3600 www.fellowfernleaflowers.com Fellows Fernlea Flowers Bring the Colour and be the Favourite Guest! THANK YOU! We are so proud that Smurf’s Truck & Auto Detailing has been selected as St. Thomas’ Favourite Car Wash/Detailing.
Get involved! Like us on Facebook! 37 Laing Blvd., St. Thomas 519-633-7879 Protect. Maintain. Save. Canada’s #1 Rust Protection. RUST CONTROL St. Thomas’ local florist since 1995
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Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025 • Page 15
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Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024 • Page 39
Rail City Perks Brings Exclusive Local Discounts to St. Thomas There’s a new way to support local in St. Thomas, and it’s putting exclusive deals in the palm of your hand. Rail City Perks is a newly launched mobile app that connects consumers with local businesses offering members-only discounts. Before you can access the app, you must first register at www.railcityperks.com. Once you’ve created your account, download the Rail City Perks app and sign in using your new credentials. To register for free, use promo code VILLAGER during sign-up. Jess Roberts, a partner with Rail City Perks, says the app is designed to give both residents and local businesses a boost. “We’re here to benefit businesses, help them grow their audience, elevate their brand throughout the St. Thomas community, and boost foot traffic and sales.” Currently, eight businesses are active on the app, with more being added each week. Jess says participating merchants include favourites like Streamliners Espresso Bar and Guac MexiGrill. “Streamliners is offering a free 1290 drink (a signature iced drink) to members, and Guac Mexi Grill has a daily burrito deal.” Each offer is exclusive to the app and cannot be found elsewhere. “That’s important to us,” says Jess. “We don’t allow generic daily deals. These perks need to be something special you can’t get unless you’re a member.” The benefits go beyond savings. Businesses receive valuable insights after each promotion ends. “They get real-life data analytics — how many people came in, how many redeemed the perk, what age group they’re in, and where they’re located. It helps them optimize future campaigns.”
For users, privacy is a priority. “We don’t sell data to third parties,” Jess confirms. “The only information we collect is anonymous and used internally. Even businesses only see a general breakdown, like a pie chart of demographics.” The app is built on a concept that saw early success in London before the pandemic put it on pause. Jess and her partners were excited to bring the idea to St. Thomas. “Most of the businesses here are locally owned and operated. I love being able to help them grow and connect with the community.” Whether you’re looking for a deal on your next coffee or want to support local businesses in a smarter way, Rail City Perks makes it easy — and rewarding. Visit www.railcityperks.com to register, and use code VILLAGER for free access. And start saving today.
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Page 16 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025
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What are your favourite summer spots in St. Thomas & Elgin? Tammy Bale Owner of Nurse Next Door St. Thomas
Melissa Kempf Communications Office Manager, YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin “There is nothing better than taking advantage of the great outdoors in Elgin!
Richard Haddow Real Estate Agent “My favourite getaway place to enjoy summer evenings is my Back Deck on Mandeville Rd. St Thomas, with friends.”
“My go to summer event is the Seniors Picnic in the Park. I love being able to connect with seniors from our area as well as with our community partners” Fran Dunseith
Lakeside at G.T.’s on the Beach, camping at Springwater Conservation Area or a peaceful stroll at Waterworks Park.”
Co-Owner of Caps Off Brewing Co . “Since I love being outdoors in the summer, I can’t choose a favourite, but some are Dalewood Trail, or Springwater Conservation area trails or one of our
fabulous beaches! Michael Moore Sun Life Advisor
“Nothing like a brisk dog walk around the village and harbour in Port Stanley and then a stop in to see Cheryl, Greg and Dave at Mackie’s for a fry with secret sauce and an orangeade”
Earl Taylor Real Estate Agent, City Councillor “I love the fabulous trails throughout the City. Nancy and I will jump on our electric scooters and take a leisurely tour through Pinafore Park and around Lake Margaret and return to a Downtown St Thomas patio.”
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Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025 • Page 17
Get involved! Like us on Facebook!
808 Talbot Street St. Thomas, ON 519-633-0600 royallepagetriland.com stthomas@royallepage.ca
View important disclosures and notices about trademarks at rlp.ca/notices Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale and/or buyers or sellers currently under contract with a brokerage.
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Important Things to Know Before Hiring a Realtor® by Barb Ginson, REALTOR® and Wanita Johnston, REALTOR® with Royal Lepage Triland Realty Thinking about buying or selling a home? Partnering with a licensed real estate professional can make all the difference. Here’s what many people don’t realize about what goes on behind the scenes — and why hiring a knowledgeable, licensed realtor is a smart move. Did You Know? 1. We Keep Our Skills Up to Date: Every two years, licensed realtors must renew their license. This includes taking 3–4 courses to stay current with laws, practices, and market trends. 2. You Can (and Should) Ask to See Our License: A valid real estate license is proof that your agent is qualified to help you. You’re entitled to ask for it at any time. 3. We Carry Real Estate Insurance: All licensed agents are required to carry errors and omissions insurance for your protection and peace of mind. 4. We Are Regulated by Multiple Boards: Real estate professionals in Ontario are governed by RECO (Real Estate Council of Ontario), OREA (Ontario Real Estate Association), CREA (Canadian Real Estate Association), and LSTAR (London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS®). 5. We Work Under a Licensed Brokerage: Even though realtors are technically self-employed, we must operate under a registered brokerage unless we are a Broker of Record.
6. We’re Required to Provide You with the RECO Information Guide: Before we provide any services or advice, we must give you the RECO Information Guide. This document explains your rights, what to expect, and how the process works. You must review and acknowledge this before we move forward. 7. You’ll Be Asked for Personal Information – It’s the Law: As part of federal anti-money laundering regulations, we must collect your identification details using a process called FINTRAC before any official documents are signed. 8. We’re More Connected Than You Think: Realtors can connect you with trusted professionals like mortgage brokers, lawyers, inspectors, stagers, and contractors — people who can help smooth the path to closing. 9. We’re With You Until After Move-In Day: A good realtor doesn’t disappear after the paperwork is signed. We help guide you through the process right up until you’re settled in your new home. 10. There Are Ways to Report Concerns: If you’re ever unhappy with the service you receive, there are official channels where you can file a complaint and have it properly reviewed.
Spring 2025 Real Estate in St. Thomas: A Smart Guide for Buyers & Sellers by Charlene Bertin, REALTOR ® New
808 Talbot Street St. Thomas, ON 519-633-0600 royallepagetriland.com stthomas@royallepage.ca
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Page 20 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025 30
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